Since most of the day by day uses of solenoid valves are 2-way/ 2-position let’s look at the above questions closer.

Operation This the most misunderstood question. Normally Open simply put means that when the valve is not energized (no power to coil) the valve is open allowing the media to pass through the valve. When the Normally Open valve is energized (power to coil) the Normally Open valve will shut down not allowing media to pass through the valve. The Normally Closed valve is of course opposite to the Normally Open valve. When the Normally Closed valve is not energized the valve will not allow media to flow through the valve. When the Normally Closed valve is energized the valve will open to allow media to flow.

Pipe Size Most all valves are listed by pipe size and Cv rating along with the valve’s orifice size. Notice that the smaller the orifice size is on a solenoid valve that the Cv rating is reduced. So what Cv do you need? Here is a “rule of thumb”. Cv = 50% of the gpm flow through a valve based on a 2-5 psi pressure drop between the inlet and outlet of the valve. So by way of example if you need 10 gpm of water to supply your need to some equipment with a 2-5 psi pressure drop the solenoid’s Cv factor would be 5.

Media Most common of media type for solenoid valves is air, water, gas, steam, or oil.

Pressure Maximum Operating Pressure Differential (M.O.P.D.) The maximum operating pressure differential refers to the maximum difference in pressure between the inlet and the outlet, against which the solenoid can safely operate the valve. If the pressure at the valve OUTLET is not known, it is safest to regard SUPPLY pressure as the M.O.P.D. Minimum Operating Pressure Differential is that which is required to OPEN the valve and keep it open. 2-way way solenoids with a floating piston or diaphragm, the valve will start to close below the minimum operating differential pressure.

Temperature The normal limitation of 32 degrees F (O degrees C) is advisable for any valve that might contain moisture (water Vapor). Where freezing water is not a factor, minimum ambience as low as 0 degrees F (-18 degrees C) can be tolerated. Special constructions are available for lower temperature ratings. Maximum ambient temperature is usually controlled by the UL listing for the coil insulation available for the valve.

Voltage There are various coil voltages available for solenoids to meet your needs. Please remember when asking for valves to state if the voltage is AC or DC and whether 50 or 60 cycles.

Stromquist and Company is proud to service your needs for solenoid valves by ASCO, GC Valve, and Honeywell. Let us help you pick the right solenoid valve for your needs by calling us at 1-800-241-9471 or 1-800-638-7828.

The ASCO relay control panels are designed to operate ASCO 120 volt and DC solenoid valves controlling gas flow to school kitchens, domestic cooking classes, metal shops, and laboratories. Many situations now call for a way to lock out gas supplies during closed hours.

Operating the key switch on the 108D10C (DC panel) or the 108D90C (120 AC panel), the control station energizes the relay to open a normally closed ASCO gas solenoid which turns on the gas flow.

Other Features:

*If the control voltage is lost completely or is reduced to approximately 50% of normal value, the relay de-energizes the normally closed valve to shut off gas flow.

*The gas valve will not re-open at restoration of power until an authorized person operates the key switch on the control station. The gas may also be shut off by depressing the normally closed pushbutton switch located on the control station.

*Optional auxiliary pushbuttons 173A19 and 173A20 may be located at various accessible locations throughout the building.

*Explosion proof gas valves from ½” to 2” available.

If you are a Stromquist customer located in Georgia or Florida and you need help sizing or ordering an ASCO Gas Control Panel you can contact Stromquist and Company at www.stromquist.com or call us at 1-800-241-9471 1-800-241-9471. All others can order this product from one of our affiliates at CGNA.